If you’re at the age where cancer screenings are recommended—or even overdue—consider this your reminder to get them on the calendar. Just like your yearly checkups with your doctor or dentist, these screenings are an important part of staying on top of your health.
Everyone’s needs are a little different, and your primary care provider can help determine exactly which screenings are right for you. Experts at Karmanos Cancer Institute and McLaren Health Care facilities are also here to support you every step of the way.
Are you unsure what you should be scheduling or when to start? Here’s a quick breakdown by age to help guide you.
Cervical Cancer Screening (Ages 21–65)
If you’re a woman between 21 and 65, regular cervical cancer screening is recommended. Testing options include the Pap test, HPV test, or both, depending on your age:
- Ages 21–29: Pap test every three years
- Ages 30–65:
- Pap test every three years, or
- HPV test every five years, or
- HPV + Pap co-test every five years
- Over 65: If you’ve had normal test results, you may no longer need screening.
- Over 65 with a new partner: Talk with your OB-GYN—screening might still be recommended.
- Had a hysterectomy? Most women no longer need cervical cancer screening.
Need an OB-GYN? Find a McLaren specialist near you.
Breast Cancer Screening (Starting at Age 40)
Women at average risk should begin annual mammograms at age 40. If you have a higher risk—such as a family history—you may need to start earlier or screen more often.
A good rule of thumb: If your mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, consider starting screenings 10 years before the age she was diagnosed.
If you’ve been told you have dense breast tissue, your provider might recommend an additional screening test along with your mammogram.
You don’t need a referral to schedule a mammogram. Find a screening location near you.
Colorectal Cancer Screening (Starting at Age 45)
A colonoscopy doesn’t just screen for colorectal cancer—it can actually help prevent it by removing precancerous polyps during the procedure.
- Average risk: Start at 45
- If everything looks normal: You may only need a colonoscopy every 10 years
- High risk (family history, IBD, or genetic factors): Talk to your doctor about screening sooner
Learn more or find a screening location near you.
Prostate Cancer Screening (Starting at Age 50; 45 for African American Men)
Men should talk to their doctor about the pros and cons of prostate cancer screening.
- Increased risk? If you’re African American or have a close family member who had prostate cancer before age 65, you may need to start screening at 45.
Get more information about prostate screening.
Lung Cancer Screening (Ages 50–80)
If you’re 50 or older and have a history of smoking, it’s time to consider lung cancer screening. You may qualify if:
- You currently smoke or quit smoking within the past 15 years
- You have a 20 pack a year smoking history (e.g., one pack per day for 20 years)
This screening is done once a year and can help detect cancer early, when it’s most treatable.
Find a lung cancer screening program near you.
Other Screenings
In addition to the screenings above, there are also screenings available for:
- Skin cancer
- Head and neck cancer
- Ovarian cancer
Your doctor can help you decide if these are necessary based on your personal risk factors.
Karmanos Locations
Find a Karmanos Cancer Institute near you.
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Ready to schedule? Reach out to your provider or contact your local Karmanos or McLaren Health Care location to get started.